The Quiraing, Isle of Skye

Natural Phenomenon, Viewing Point and Walk near Isle of Skye

Blue is coming in Quiraing
Blue is coming in Quiraing
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Luis Ascenso Photography

The Quiraing is one of the Isle of Skye's most extraordinary landscapes, a dramatic world of rock pinnacles, high cliffs, grassy plateaus, and shifting geology carved by a colossal ancient landslip. Located on the northern Trotternish Peninsula, it is the only part of the slip still actively moving today, which is why the road beneath it needs regular repair. The scenery here feels almost unreal, and its name, derived from the Old Norse Kvi Rand meaning something folded, perfectly captures the layered, contorted look of the land.

This wild setting has made the Quiraing one of the top sights in the Isle of Skye, and its cinematic quality has featured in films such as The BFG, Macbeth, Stardust, Snow White and the Huntsman, King Arthur: Legend of the Sword, and Transformers: The Last Knight. For hikers, photographers, and anyone fascinated by unusual geology, this is one of the best places to see in the Isle of Skye.

History and Significance of the Quiraing

The Quiraing was created by a huge ancient landslip that shaped the entire Trotternish Ridge. While most of the slip stabilised long ago, the Quiraing continues to shift slightly each year, giving the landscape an unusual, sculpted look. Its cliffs, pinnacles, and terraces have been shaped over millennia, creating one of the most distinctive geological features in Scotland.

The Norse name reflects the island’s Viking past, when these dramatic formations were used as navigational landmarks. Local stories also surround the area, especially about the Table, a flat plateau hidden within the rocks where locals once claimed shinty matches were played. Whether legend or truth, the Quiraing’s secluded spaces inspire vivid imagination.

Its rugged scenery has long inspired artists, filmmakers, and travellers, and today it remains a symbol of Skye’s wild appeal.

Things to See and Do in the Quiraing

The Quiraing Circuit is the most popular way to experience this remarkable landscape. This 6.8 km loop includes spectacular viewpoints, unusual rock formations, hidden grassy plateaus, and constant views out toward Staffin Bay and the mountains of the mainland. The trail takes just over two hours to complete, though many visitors linger longer to admire the scenery.

Highlights include the looming cliffs that frame the path, the jagged outline of the Prison, the tall spire known as the Needle, and the remarkable flat top of the Table. The walk is moderately challenging with steep sections, scrambles, and rough paths, but it is one of the must-see places in the Isle of Skye for lovers of dramatic scenery.

Below is the full walking route exactly as experienced on the trail.

Walking the Quiraing: Stage 1 - Prison
Start by following the path leading north from the car park. The ground is rough underfoot, with steep grassy slopes rising on your right. Ahead, the cliffs tower over the landscape, and to their right stands the three-summited rock formation known as the Prison, whose jagged shape resembles fortress walls. After around 10 minutes, the path reaches a more challenging section requiring a short scramble over a rock gorge to cross a small stream. Continue toward the Prison, which the path passes between the high cliffs. By the Prison itself, the route climbs a bank of loose scree.

Walking the Quiraing: Stage 2 - Needle
With the Prison on your right, look left to see a cluster of tall rock columns, the largest of which is known as the Needle. Leave the main path at its crest marked by a cairn, then climb the steep, muddy slope toward the Needle. Keeping left of the formation, continue upward until a narrow path leads right into a gap accessed via a gully. Through openings in the rock, you’ll enjoy superb views north and east, including tiny Staffin Island and the deep sea lochs of Torridon and Gairloch on the mainland.

Walking the Quiraing: Stage 3 - Table
Beyond the gully, the path dips slightly before zig-zagging up another steep rise toward the Table. The safest access to this grassy plateau is by passing below it on the left, then following an easy path up the back of the flat top. On clear days, the views from here are exceptional, and the peaceful grassy space makes an ideal spot for a break. Local folklore says shinty matches were once played here, thanks to the unusual flatness of the ground.

Walking the Quiraing: Stage 4 - The Return
The return path follows the same route back to the car park. Descend carefully, as some sections can be slippery. If you wish to extend your time in the landscape, you can remain on the main Flodigarry path for an additional half-mile, where a large cairn offers more views of the sea and surrounding cliffs.

How to Get to the Quiraing

The turn-off to the Quiraing appears after Staffin at Brogaig, where a steep road with hairpin bends climbs west toward the escarpment. The nearest major airport is Inverness Airport, offering access to the Highlands before travelling onward to Skye. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Isle of Skye on Booking.com.

Travellers can reach Kyle of Lochalsh by train, then cross the Skye Bridge by bus or car to drive north toward Staffin and the Quiraing. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Driving is the easiest way to reach the Quiraing. The car park sits near the top of the steep road after the cemetery. It fills quickly in mid-summer, so visitors often park along the road further on.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Quiraing

  • Suggested tips: Wear sturdy hiking boots; expect mud, scrambles, and uneven ground.
  • Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy dramatic lighting.
  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: Always accessible.
  • Official website: Isle of Skye tourism sites offer route updates.
  • How long to spend: 2-3 hours for the full circuit, longer with extra stops.
  • Accessibility: Not suitable for limited mobility due to steep, uneven terrain.
  • Facilities: None at the car park; nearest facilities are in Staffin.
  • Photography tip: Cloudy days create moody atmosphere; clear days give far-reaching coastal views.
  • Guided tours: Occasionally included in Skye hiking tours; often visited independently.
  • Nearby food options: Staffin offers small cafes and shops for snacks and meals.

Where to Stay close to the Quiraing

Flodigarry and Staffin offer the most convenient access to the Quiraing. A dramatic option is Flodigarry Hotel, which sits close to the escarpment with sweeping sea views. A cosy alternative is Staffin House, ideal for day trips to the Quiraing and nearby attractions. For more amenities and dining choices, The Portree Hotel provides a central base with easy access to northern Skye.

Is the Quiraing Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. The Quiraing offers some of the most dramatic landscapes in Scotland, with its volcanic cliffs, jagged pinnacles, hidden plateaus, and sweeping sea views. Its walking circuit is both manageable and unforgettable, making it one of the things to do in the Isle of Skye for anyone drawn to rugged terrain and breathtaking scenery.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.9 (1,412)

The Quiraing on Skye is a striking destination of narrow paths and dramatic rock formations offering sweeping coastal and mountain views; trails range from a short, easy walk from the car park to longer circuits of several miles, with parts that are well maintained but also some steeper, rocky sections that may require scrambling and sturdy footwear. Parking can be limited so arrive early, there's a pay station and no public restrooms, and portions of the access road are single-track with potholes—drivers should be courteous when pulling over. Weather can be changeable (wind and rain are common), but on clear days the scenery is exceptional and many visitors find a lunch and a camera well worth bringing.

Ha a Jun
a month ago
"When we were here, it was quite windy and wet. Nevertheless, the scenery was absolutely stu ing. On a su y day, it would be even more magnificent. Itwas truly magical. For future visitors, extensive hiking isn’t necessary. Once you park your car in the parking lot, a very short and easy walk will take you to the spot where we took these photos...."
Josephine W
a month ago
"The Quiraing is simply breathtaking in its raw beauty. Our hike took about an hour round-trip from the car park to the viewpoint and back. The climbwas very manageable, with a well-maintained trail that made the journey enjoyable. The highlight was pausing to soak in and capture the sweeping, panoramic views of the spectacular formations and coastline. Truly a must-do experience on the Isle of Skye!..."
Mark E
2 months ago
"We did not hike the entire 4 mile hill circuit, as we had plans on hiking The Storr later the same day. Looking back on it, I kind of wished we hadhike all of this Scotland icon circuit. We only hiked the begi ing section in which the trail is quite good. We experience a wee bit of scottish weather during our walk. The car park has a pay station. There are no public restrooms...."

FAQs for Visiting the Quiraing

Around 2 to 2.5 hours for the 6.8 km loop, depending on conditions and stops.
It is moderate, with some steep and muddy sections, but manageable with care.
It has steep hairpins and can be challenging in winter; drive cautiously.
Yes, many viewpoints are accessible with shorter walks from the car park.

Nearby Attractions to the Quiraing

  • Staffin Beach - Known for its dinosaur footprints and coastal views.
  • Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls - A striking basalt cliff with a dramatic free-falling waterfall.
  • Old Man of Storr - One of Skye's most iconic pinnacles with panoramic views.
  • Brother’s Point - A scenic headland great for coastal walks.
  • Flodigarry - A peaceful village beneath the escarpment with beautiful sea views.

The The Quiraing appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Isle of Skye!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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